The Department of Natural Resources is teaming up with the Mid-Michigan Chapter of United Sportsmen’s Alliance (MMUSA), the Belding Sportsman’s Club (BSC), and several other sporting groups and local businesses to sponsor a youth rabbit hunt at the Flat River State Game Area on Saturday, Jan. 18.

The day will kick off with a free breakfast at 7:30 a.m. and will conclude with a free lunch from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. All events will occur at the Belding Sportsman’s Club, located at 10651 Youngman Road in Belding.

There is no fee to participate, and maps of potential hot spots on the 11,000 acres of nearby public hunting land will be available. Participating youths will be eligible for a number of outstanding raffle prizes.

“This hunt came together thanks to the cooperation of many partners with an interest in keeping Michigan’s hunting tradition going strong,” said DNR wildlife biologist John Niewoonder. “We hope that the instruction, hands-on field experience, fun and camaraderie will get kids excited about trying their hand at hunting.”

Hunting parties must have at least one member younger than 17 years old and should pre-register by Jan. 15. For more information or to register, contact the Flat River State Game Area at 616-794-2658.

Participating hunters must have a valid small game or mentored youth hunting license, available online at www.mdnr-elicense.com or anywhere hunting licenses are sold.